### Trump Intensifies Pressure on Maduro: A Call for Resignation Amid Military Escalation In a significant escalation of rhetoric and military pressure, U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly urged Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to resign, stating it would be "smart" for him to step down. This statement comes as the U.S. ramps up its military presence in the Caribbean, targeting Venezuelan oil shipments and drug trafficking operations. Trump's comments reflect a broader strategy aimed at destabilizing Maduro's regime, which has faced increasing international scrutiny and opposition. Notably, Russia has expressed its unwavering support for Maduro, complicating the geopolitical landscape surrounding Venezuela. ### Breakdown of Trump's Statements and Actions 1. **Call for Resignation**: Trump explicitly stated that it would be wise for Maduro to leave power, warning of severe consequences if he chooses to "play tough" against U.S. actions [https://www.firstpost.com/world/donald-trump-says-it-would-be-smart-for-venezuelas-maduro-to-step-down-warns-of-consequences-13962169.html]. 2. **Military Operations**: The U.S. has intensified military operations in the region, including a blockade aimed at Venezuelan oil wealth and strikes on vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking [https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2025/12/22/trump-says-smart-venezuelas-maduro-step]. 3. **International Reactions**: Russia and China have voiced strong support for Maduro, criticizing U.S. actions as aggressive and unwarranted. This international backing complicates the U.S. strategy and highlights the geopolitical stakes involved [https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/trump-warns-maduro-against-playing-tough-as-us-escalates-pressure-campaign-on-venezuela-101766466486717.html]. 4. **Consequences of Non-compliance**: Trump warned that any resistance from Maduro could lead to "lasting consequences," indicating a potential for increased military action or sanctions [https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-warns-maduro-not-to-play-tough-amid-venezuela-tensions/story]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Military Presence**: The U.S. has deployed approximately 2,200 Marines in the Caribbean, signaling its military readiness and capability to act against Venezuela [https://nypost.com/2025/12/22/world-news/us-shows-military-might-as-trump-turns-the-screws-on-venezuelan-dictator-nicolas-maduro]. - **Seized Assets**: Trump mentioned that the U.S. could keep or sell oil seized from Venezuela, which could bolster U.S. strategic reserves [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/headlines/3739182-trumps-tough-talk-on-venezuelan-oil-seizure]. - **Casualties**: Reports indicate that U.S. military actions have resulted in at least 100 fatalities among those involved in drug trafficking operations near Venezuela [https://english.aawsat.com/world/5222319-trump-says-it-would-be-smart-venezuelas-maduro-leave-power]. ### Conclusion: A Complex Geopolitical Landscape In summary, **Trump's call for Maduro to resign is part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on the Venezuelan government amid escalating military operations**. The situation is further complicated by strong international support for Maduro from Russia and China, which may hinder U.S. efforts to destabilize his regime. The following points summarize the current state of affairs: 1. Trump has publicly urged Maduro to resign, warning of severe consequences for resistance. 2. The U.S. has increased military operations in the Caribbean, targeting Venezuelan oil and drug trafficking. 3. Russia and China have expressed support for Maduro, complicating U.S. strategies. 4. The potential for increased military action remains high if Maduro does not comply. This evolving situation underscores the intricate dynamics of international relations and the potential for conflict in the region [https://ifpnews.com/us-warns-maduro-not-to-play-tough-as-russia-china-back-venezuela].